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Richard Vliet

Name: Richard Vliet

City, State: Wichita, Kansas

Age: 63

Family:
Wife – Marni
Two daughters and two grandchildren

Hobbies/Interests: Music, gardening and carpentry.

Date of ALS diagnosis: February 2003

Life before ALS: I was involved in real estate development with an emphasis on adaptive reuse/renovation of historical properties.  I was quite physically active and strongly engaged in our community.

Life with ALS: I look at this disease as just being a new phase of life.  Just as my previous work involved preservation and adapting to a new challenge, it is so important to use these skills in life today.

How has ALS brought new significance to your life: This disease has definitely been a humbling experience.  But I do have the good fortune to be able to communicate my love for others.  Embrace your loved ones, friends and community.